Peaches and Cream

Peaches & Cream by

Serenity King

This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents are products of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously and are not to be construed as real. Any resemblance to actual events, locales, organizations, or persons, living or dead, is entirely coincidental.

Copyright© 2010 Serenity King Cover Artist: Shara Azod Editor: Novellette Whyte

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be used or reproduced electronically or in print without written permission, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in reviews. This is a work of fiction. All references to real places, people, or events are coincidental, and if not coincidental, are used fictitiously. All trademarks, service marks, registered trademarks, and registered service marks are the property of their respective owners and are used herein for identification purposes only.

Chapter One It looks as if we‟ll have a full crowd at today‟s meeting if the amount of chairs positioned at the oak table were an indication. Oh brother, Samira Morgan sighed. If she had to sit through one more boring Friday afternoon meeting she was going to pull every strand of hair clean out of her head. She tried to be attentive. Really she did. But these meetings were not necessary EVERY Friday afternoon. Especially since nothing remotely fruitful came of them. The bank was suffering and it was showing in the reports. The only good thing about their Friday meetings was the free food. This one was being held in one of the executive conference rooms, which wasn‟t at all unusual. They used one of these rooms depending on how many would be attending. Samira was the vice president of the Business Services Department of the Freeman Bank and she and her boss, Mark Baldwin were usually the first to arrive at the conference room. She‟d worked alongside Mark for over a year now but has known him for a lot longer. Samira had to admit that they worked well together. All of their projects were completed on time and Mark was great as a boss and friend. Unfortunately, not every department ran as smoothly. “I‟m having a little get-together tomorrow night Samira, come by,” Mark said interrupting her musings. Samira peered at him suspiciously. “What kind of get together, Mark?” Mark chuckled under his breath. “A celebration party Samira.” “Really, now why don‟t I believe you?” “Why so suspicious, Samira? Would I lie to you?” Mark chuckled again. Samira glared at him. “Ah, yes you would.” “Seriously, Samira, it‟s a celebration. You‟ll see,” he smirked. “No I won‟t. I‟m not going to your party, Mark. The last „get together‟ I attended of yours was w-a-a-y out of my league. What did you call it again? Oh yeah, „sloshing‟,” Samira whispered. “Yes, you are coming. It‟s not that kind of party. I promise. Now shush people are starting to arrive.” The look on his face was the picture of innocence.

“Don‟t you shush me Mark Baldwin, I am not going to your party and that‟s final.” Mark sighed deeply then stole a look at the lovely woman sitting next to him. She didn‟t know it yet, but she was going to be his. She was absolutely correct…the celebration was a ruse, but not for the reasons she thought. His celebration was for two, him and her. “We will continue this conversation after the meeting, Samira,” he said firmly. Before Samira could further dispute the issue with Mark, people began to crowd the room. She looked up just in time to see not only the head of the legal department, Josh Stone, but right on his heels, was the President of the bank, Steven Parish. “I wonder what‟s going on.” “You‟re about to find out.” Samira didn‟t have time to ponder Mark‟s cryptic reply as the heads of every department piled into the Executive Conference Room and took his or her seat. Samira watched as Adele Newman, the vice president of marketing, made a beeline straight for the empty seat next to Mark. It was not a secret that the beautiful redhead had a thing for Mark given she was in his face every chance she got. Mark probably would have taken her up on her many offers had he not had a rule about not dating any office personnel. Outside of the office, he dated, in her opinion, anything in a skirt. Well, until recently. Lately she hadn‟t seen him with anyone. But then again, she hadn‟t been around too much lately. She‟d had to take care of a few things in her personal life. “Hi, Mark, is this seat taken? Adele asked. “Unfortunately, not,” Mark grumbled. From the woman‟s quick intake of breath and the redness of her face, Samira, knew she‟d heard him. Uh oh! Apparently her boss had had enough of the woman coming on to him. Samira kicked Mark under the table. “Ouch!” Mark yelped. “Be nice,” she whispered for his ears only.

Samira watched from the corner of her eye as Mark inhaled deeply, pasted a smile on his face, and looked up at the Adele. “No, it‟s not. Please have a seat. Rough day, I apologize.” From the way Adele‟s face lit up one would have thought she‟d won the lotto. Samira shook her head slightly. Sheesh! How many ways did the man have to tell her that he‟s not interested? “Silly woman,” Samira said under her breath. Mark snickered. Samira peeked at him from under hooded lashes and blushed at the smirk she saw on his face. Evidently he‟d heard her. “Play nice,” he mimicked. “Oh shut-up,” she said, which triggered another chuckle from him. They were interrupted as the meeting was called to order by the president of the bank, Steven Parish. “Good afternoon everyone.” There were murmured good afternoons all around the conference table. “I just wanted to greet you all and explain a few things that will be taking place within the next few weeks. I have already spoken with the heads of each department and would just like to briefly bring everyone up to speed on what to expect. The bank is doing a major overhaul.” The collective intakes of breath were heard around the room. People started fidgeting. The word „overhaul‟ usually involved layoffs. Samira wasn‟t concerned for herself, she was pretty straight financially. A great deal of people gathered in this room and in their departments had homes and families to take care of. Samira had neither. No children and her adoptive parents were killed in a car accident two years ago. She missed them so much. Samira was so busy musing that she was startled to feel the hand that gave her knee a soft squeeze. “What the hell!” She thought to herself. “What was Mark playing at?” Samira stretched her legs and crossed them at the ankles, trying to shake Mark‟s hand from her knee, but he didn‟t move his hand. The dratted man knew there wasn‟t much she could do without drawing attention to them. Trying to explain why her boss‟s hand was on her knee would be embarrassing for her. With some of the stuff Mark got into she doubted if he would care. However,

some others had it in their minds that Samira had gotten her promotions from sleeping with her bosses, especially Mark. Not so. She had worked her ass off for every promotion she‟d been granted and she wasn‟t apologizing for them. Let them think what they wanted. The hand on her knee got bolder…didn‟t feel like the hand of a friend but that of a lover. The same fingers that she watched on many occasion sign and approve many of her reports were now doing wicked things to her senses. When fingers left her knee and began sliding sensually up and down her thigh she thought she‟d jump out of her skin. Her body heated, her nipples tingled and her clit began a rapid pulse. The sensations were too much. She writhed in her seat to relieve some of the pressure. The gesture garnered her a few looks and caused Mark to remove his hand and look down at the papers in front of him. Samira took a deep breath and sat up straight. “You okay, Samira?” Mark asked. Oh, no he didn’t just ask me that. The rat fink made me cream my panties in the middle of a meeting with a room full of people and he had the audacity to ask me if I was alright. Samira turned to Mark ready to blast him, however, thought better of it when she noticed his squinting eyes, his face a picture of innocence. Had she not noticed the little tick at the corner of his eye, the one that appeared when he was trying to keep from laughing, he‟d have fooled her too with that innocent look. Oh he was good. Samira cleared her throat. “I‟m fine, Mark, why do you ask?” “You seem a little flushed…feverish like and you were moving around like you were uncomfortable. You sure you‟re okay? I hope you‟re not catching that nasty bug that‟s been going around the office.” She‟d felt before turning around that all eyes were now on her. Oh God. This was s-o-o embarrassing. Samira felt like picking up that report that Mark had been pretending to read and clobbering him with it. She would exact her revenge later. Samira pasted a smile on her face. “Really, I‟m okay. Felt a little clammy for a second. I‟m fine now. Honestly, it‟s nothing a glass of water won‟t cure. Please continue, Steven.”

“By all means if you need water, Samira, go get some. You can still hear me from across the room.” Steven said his concern evident in his eyes. Not wanting to draw any more attention to herself than necessary; she decided to get some water. The table across the room held an assortment of beverages. Steven was right the beverages were only a few feet away; she wouldn‟t have a problem hearing what was being said. Well no problem other than lack of concentration. She needed a few minutes to gather herself anyway. “Thank you. I think I will,” Samira said as she made her way over to the refreshments. “Samira, could you bring me a bottle of water too?” Mark asked. “Please.” Samira looked down at the twinkling blue eyes that looked up at her. Although Mark wasn‟t smiling, his eyes were. She knew this was a game to him. It‟ll serve him right if I opened the bottle and poured its contents on him. She smiled down at him. “Sure. Be right back.” Pushed her chair back and walked away on jittery legs. Samira grabbed two bottles of water and made her way back over to the meeting. As she handed Mark his bottle their fingers touched briefly; her body heated upon contact. What was wrong with her? She‟d known mark for the better part of six years and nothing remotely like this had ever happened before. Well there was that one time when they‟d gone to Beck‟s for happy hour with a group of people from the office. She and Mark had been dancing, which they‟d always done, a slow song came on and they‟d continued dancing. For a brief moment the feel of her head against the solid wall of his chest felt right; real cozy like. But nothing out of the ordinary happened. Nothing that she‟d remembered anyway. She‟d had been more than a little tipsy that night. Mark had taken her home, as he usually did after one of their happy hour ventures, saw her inside, and left. So where‟d this new awareness come from? And, again, what was Mark playing at? Samira was startled out of her musing at the sound of clapping, only to look up and see that everyone was standing and clapping. Oh dang! What had she missed? Again! Grrrrr, she said to herself. “Congratulations, Samira,” Mark was holding his hand out for her to shake. Samira looked at Mark in wide-eyed wonderment. “Wh—What?”

“You deserve the promotion to Senior Vice President,” he interjected. Samira‟s eyes stretched wide. Did he just say senior vice president? Well hell, she wanted a break and she‟d just gotten promoted. Samira cleared her throat. “Wow, Sr. VP, thank you,” was her fainthearted reply. “Congrats, Samira! We‟ll miss Mark‟s expertise, however, I am confident you‟ll do a wonderful job,” Steven said. Samira glanced at Steven then back at Mark. Miss, Mark? Where was Mark going? Oh, no, he didn‟t…he didn‟t get the ax…did he? Samira lifted a questioning brow at Mark and as if reading her mind, he replied. “Yes, I‟ll be working as a consultant for the bank now, a strategic planner. I‟ll explain in detail later.” “Okay everyone settle down. I‟ll just be a few moments more,” Steven cut in. Everyone took their seats again. “Like I said before the implementation of the new changes will not take place until after the board meeting next week. After that the announcements will be made official. No one is to tell anyone in his or her department what‟s going on. As you know there will have to be layoffs. Each department head will work with the Human Resources department in determining who goes and who stays. I am letting you know now that any department that‟s over budget will be the first department to be handed pink slips. I would advise, before letting any employee go, to see if he or she can be used in another capacity in the bank. Our goal is to save as many jobs as humanly possible. Severance packages will be determined by the Human Resource department. I need each of you to work diligently with HR and the legal department to help make this a smooth process. Any problems should be reported to the legal department. Thank you, ladies and gentlemen, have a great weekend,” Steven said and adjourned the meeting. Everyone got up and began to file out of the conference room. Some happy, some somber. Samira picked up her folder and made to leave only to be restrained by Mark‟s hand on her arm. There was that blasted hand again.

“Samira I have to meet with Josh then I‟ll be back to the office. Wait for me. We need to talk,” he whispered. “You better believe it buster. What the hell was all of that about today?” she mouthed. “Just wait for me,” he pleaded with his eyes. Samira studied Mark‟s handsome face for a few moments, sighed then nodded her consent. “You‟d better not be long. I was planning on going home and relaxing in front of my television with a nice big bowl of peaches and ice cream.” Mark lips lifted at the corners. “Peaches and ice cream…sounds promising.” Mark

winked at her and walked away, leaving Samira rooted in her

spot; gawking at his back. “I guess sleeping with the boss will get you promoted every time.” Samira didn‟t have to turn around to know whom the venom filled voice belonged. Oh brother here we go again. Samira took a deep breath, let it out, then turned and faced the resentful woman. “You‟d know better than I would. Wouldn‟t you Adele,” Samira responded. She left the woman standing there with her mouth agape, and made her way out of the conference room to the bank of elevators to take her to her office which was located on the 4th floor. Looking down at her watch in the process, she noticed that it was going on 4:30 p.m. *** Mark sat in Josh Stone‟s office not hearing a damn thing the man was saying. His mind was still on Samira. Samira didn‟t know it yet but his main reason for resigning was her. He wanted to be with her, however, because of his rule of „no office dating‟, a rule that most at the bank knew about, he‟d kept his feelings to himself. Samira was the one woman he‟d willingly make the exception for. Samira thought of him as a friend and nothing more. Well, after this weekend he was hoping to change his friend status to that of friend, lover, and or significant other. He‟d gladly be all of those things to her and more. He hadn‟t meant to get so carried away today in the conference room. Once he‟d touched her, felt the silkiness of her thigh his senses had gone into overdrive, and caused his cock to thump behind the zipper of his trousers. With people sitting on either side of them, what he‟d done had been risky, but at that point his brain had

ceased all coherent thoughts. Adele would have been the only one interested in what he was doing anyway, but he‟d made certain that wouldn‟t be able to see a thing by positioning his body slightly away from her, blocking her view. The reaction he‟d received from Samira had been worth the risk. Mark smiled inwardly thinking about Samira‟s reaction to his touch. She‟d practically jumped out of her skin. Her breathing had become heavy. She‟d definitely been aroused. His thoughts were interrupted by Josh. Mark could hear the annoyance in his friend‟s voice. “Mark. Mark.” Mark‟s lips turned up at the corners in a smile. “Sorry, Josh, what were you saying?” “You haven‟t heard a word I‟ve said, have you?” “No.” “You‟re not even going to pretend you were paying attention,” Josh asked. “No.” “Dammit, man, what‟s up with you? I‟ve been talking apparently to myself for the past half hour.” “I know man. It‟s just that I want Samira.” Mark could tell by the expression on his friend‟s visage that he clearly had no idea of what Mark was talking about. The next words out of Josh‟s mouth confirmed his suspicions. “I don‟t understand. You want Samira for what?” Mark studied his friend for a moment before answering. “I. Want. Samira.” Mark watched Josh‟s eyes bulge and his mouth open and close in recognition of what he was saying. “Oh. Oh, you want Samira as in you want to have sex with her.” “No. I mean, yes. I mean Samira is different. It wouldn‟t just be about sex.” The way that Josh said the word made it sound dirty,” Mark thought. “Come on Mark. This is me you‟re talking to. Ever since you started dating you‟ve probably bedded anything in a skirt. You and Samira have been friends for how long now?” “Going on six years,” Mark answered.

“Exactly. You want to mess up six years of friendship because you can‟t keep your dick in your pants.” “I will not be messing up our friendship and this is not about me not being able to keep my „dick‟ as you so eloquently put it, in my pants. I want Samira.” “I know you want her Mark but for how long? Josh asked. “Your track record with women is astounding to say the least. I often wondered if you thought that women were put on Earth just to appease your sexual appetite.” Mark grimaced. “You don‟t have a high opinion of me do you, Josh?” “Love you like a brother. That‟s why I can tell you the truth about yourself. All I‟m saying is to think about your friendship with Samira before you do anything stupid.” “I have thought about our friendship. That‟s why it‟s taken me this long to make a move. And for your information I haven‟t slept with a woman in about six months. I‟ve been too busy trying to get things in order for me to resign. I want everything to be perfect.” “So you‟re telling me that this entire resignation thing has to do with Samira?” “It has everything to do with Samira. She knows I don‟t date within the office. Besides I wouldn‟t put her through the gossip that dating me would cause. Hell, Adele alone would make her life a living hell. There‟s enough talk already. I won‟t have people talking down to her or questioning her every move within this bank. Samira‟s a damn good worker. She can run our department with her hands tied behind her back. You and I both know that Josh. It wasn‟t a sacrifice on my part to resign I have more money than I can spend in two lifetimes—” Mark stopped short when he noticed the huge grin on his friend‟s face. “What?” “You‟re in love with her?” Mark opened his mouth to speak then shut it. “Let‟s just say I have strong feelings for her and leave it at that,” Mark said. Love? Please, give me a break. He wasn‟t even sure if he believed in the emotion. Josh chuckled. “Let‟s not leave it at that. Anyway, good luck in trying to convince Samira to give you a chance.” Josh grinned at his friend. “See, that‟s the

thing about friendships, you get exposed to shit you don‟t want to. Samira‟s been exposed to a lot more of your…ah ways, so to speak. And let‟s not forget about all the different women you‟ve paraded in front of her over the years. Oh and we can‟t forget about Mr. and Mrs. Stuck-up. They‟d give Samira hell and you know it.” “Mr. and Mrs. Stuck-up?” Mark questioned. “Yes. Your parents,” Josh laughed outright at his own joke. “Shit! I forgot about them. I‟ll deal with those two when the time comes. I‟m not worried about Samira she can handle her own. My lady has a wild streak that hasn‟t been tapped into yet. I plan on bringing out every one of them. I‟ll get her to go out with me. Trust me,” Mark said, his smile confident. “Your lady, huh,” Josh sneered. “We‟ll see. I take it you‟ve told her about ALL your parties.” “The hell with you, Josh that life is over for me now. It served it‟s purpose at the time. Anyway, stop playing the lawyer with me. Feel like I‟m on the witness stand or something. Why don‟t you want me with Samira?” “I‟ll take that as a no; you haven‟t told her. I don‟t have a problem with you being with Samira as long as you‟re on the up and up. She‟s a good person and has worked hard to get where she is. Be for real or leave her alone, or your parents will be the least of your concerns. Hurt her, intentionally and I will find you, cut your balls off and feed them to the worms. That‟s all I‟m saying. Now get out of my office I‟m tired of talking about your love life or lack thereof.” Mark watched his friend‟s grey eyes, darken as he spoke of Samira. Josh had never spoken to him in this blunt manner before, and he had never threatened him over a woman. Make a man wonder why he was doing so now. Hell there was a reason why they were best friends and most of those reasons were because they were into the same shit. “I thought you said a moment ago that I was in love with her. What‟s changed? Don‟t tell me you have a thing for her too. You‟ve known me a lot longer than you‟ve known Samira, yet you sound as though you‟d defend her to the death.”

“Oh I know you‟re in love with her. Nothing‟s changed. No I do not have a thing for Samira. I do have serious qualms about you remaining faithful to one woman though. I don‟t want to see Samira hurt. It‟s as simple as that.” “I‟ve never been with more than one woman at a time, Josh.” “Really?” Josh questioned with a lift of his brow. “I‟ll rephrase that. I‟ve never dated more than one woman at a time. Like I said before, I haven‟t been with a woman in six months and the only woman that I plan on being with now is Samira.” “We‟ll see.” Josh looked down at his watch. “Damn, Mark, you‟ve been in here for over an hour and we haven‟t gotten anything accomplished. Again get out of my office. I have a date tonight. Call me if you need me,” Josh said standing up and putting on his suit jacket. “Shit! I told Samira to wait for me. Bye Josh,” Mark said and rushed out of Josh‟s office and ran right smack into Adele. “Hi, Mark. I‟ve been waiting for you,” Adele said. “Really, why?” “I wanted to see if you wanted to go have a drink with me.” “No. I have other plans,” Mark said stepping around the woman trying to make it to the elevator. “Maybe next time,” Mark heard her call out. Not if he could help it. “Maybe not,” he said firmly. There was only one woman that he wanted to go out with and she was waiting for him in her office. He hoped. Mark got off the elevator and rushed over to Samira‟s office, turned the knob and walked in without knocking. Mark stopped short when he noticed that she‟d fallen asleep at her desk. She was sitting up in the chair with her head resting against the headrest with her eyes closed. Her eyes opened once he closed the door behind him. She started to get up but told her to stay with a gesture of his hands. Mark stood there and studied her for a moment. Skin the color of golden caramel, her grey eyes often had people asking if she wore contacts, she didn‟t. Samira wasn‟t tall, standing at about five feet, four inches tall in her high heels,

about one hundred and twenty pounds, but very well proportioned. Mark knew women that worked out daily to be as toned as Samira. Samira‟s was natural. Occasional walks on her lunch break was the extent of her exercise. She didn‟t belong to a gym nor did she work out. He‟d often teased her about her eating habits and gaining weight. Samira loved peaches in ice cream and anything else with peaches and or cream in it or on it. Her curly, brown, highlighted hair complemented her golden caramel skin tone and grey eyes. “Are you going to stand there and stare at me all day or are you going to tell me why you wanted me to wait for you?” Samira asked. “I think I‟ll stare for a few moments longer. Thank you very much,” he smiled. “I like the view.” “You‟re not even going to deny that you were staring, are you?” “No, why should I, when we both know that I was. That I am.” “What‟s going on Mark? You‟ve been acting strange even for you.” “I won‟t discuss it here. Let‟s go get a bite to eat and I‟ll enlighten you.” Samira glared at him. “If this about that little celebration at your house tomorrow night, I‟m not going,” she said firmly. “Of course you are. I‟ll even pick you up,” he said walking over to her desk, taking her hand, and helping her up out of her seat. When she was on her feet he pulled her close to him and encircled his arms around her waist. “Wh-what are you doing Mark,‟ she whispered. “Something I should have done a long time ago,” he said just before his mouth swooped down and covered her lips with his. “Open.” Her lips parted on their own accord. Her lips parting was all the confirmation he needed to slip his tongue into her mouth. Mark outlined the contours of her mouth with his tongue, than gentle drew hers into his mouth and feasted. Oh man her taste was even more potent than he‟d thought. She tasted of a minty chocolate, decadent. He felt her arms encircle him and deepened the kiss. There was no way in hell that she wouldn‟t know how much he wanted her, being that his cock was pressed against her stomach and was steadily growing.

Mark didn‟t know whether it was her moan or his but the next thing he knew his hands traveled from her waist down to cup the soft globes of her ass, lifting her off of her feet, and grinding her into his very prominent erection. The feel of her heated center coming into contact with his cock had him groaning against her lips. “Damn, babe, that‟s good,” he breathed against her lips, than continued to grind her up and down his erection. “Hmm, feels real good.” She whispered. “More. I want more.” Her voice filled with desire. “You got it babe,” he murmured. Thank God for her wraparound dress. His hand ventured under her dress, one to hold her naked butt cheek and the other to push her thong panty to the side and slipped his finger inside her wet core. Samira cried out as soon as his finger slipped inside of her. “Good gravy,” she cried rocking into him, riding his finger. Samira‟s juices were soaking his finger. He knew what she meant…not only was it good but it was damned erotic the way she was trying to crawl up his body. Her breathing was becoming erratic; her moans louder. Her pussy began to tighten around his finger; she was about to cum. Mark added another finger to the one that was already in her and pushed up and down. Each time he pushed up he used his other hand to grind her down on his cock, providing friction to her clit. “Oh God, Mark! I can‟t hold back!” “Don‟t. Let go, Samira,” he urged. That was all the encouragement she seemed to need. Samira threw her head back, her body tightened and convulsed as she cried out. “Oh my damn!” and her womanly dew trickled down his finger. Mark removed his fingers from Samira. Rather than setting her on her feet, he placed her on the edge of her desk and began to push her damp hair out of her face. “That was beautiful Samira. You‟re so responsive.” Samira was still breathing hard. “But you didn‟t,” she stopped and looked down at his erection.

Mark giggled. “No I didn‟t. Trust me I wanted to and I will. I prefer it to be while buried deep in your pussy or with my cock in her mouth in intervals, of course.” “Oh.” “Yes oh. Are you uncomfortable with me talking like this to you, Samira?” he asked as he studied her flushed face. “You‟ve never spoken like this to me before.” “I‟ve never had you riding my cock or my fingers touching your womb either. I‟m asking, if my speaking bluntly about sex bothers you?” Samira couldn‟t hide her blush from him. She knew her face was red hot from embarrassment. “I don‟t know, Mark. We‟ve gone from being friends to whatever the hell we‟re doing now in a matter of a few hours. I don‟t know what to make of it. I will not be your fuck buddy. I‟ve been there, done that with Darrell. Not doing that again. Ever.” Mark scowled down at her. “Please don‟t mention Darrell to me,” he glowered. Samira chuckled. “You never did like Darrell, did you?” “No. I didn‟t and you know it. The man was a complete ass.” Samira lifted one perfectly arched brow at him. “Really. Wasn‟t it at one of your parties Darrell ditched me?” “Yes. But only because I asked him to leave.” “Oh really, why?” “Never mind why, just answer the question.” “No. I don‟t have a problem with you speaking bluntly about sex. I think it‟s sexy.” Mark released the breath the he was holding and smiled down at her. “Good. Now let‟s go get something to eat. Any particular place you‟d like to go?” “No. You choose.” “Hey I have an idea. How about we stop at the deli, pick-up a couple of sandwiches and take a ride out to the Poconos. “Poconos, tonight? What‟s in the Poconos?” “Yes tonight. I have a house in the Poconos?”

She gave him a skeptical look. “I didn‟t know you owned a house in the Poconos.” “There are a lot of things you don‟t know about me, Samira. I assure you I own a house in the Poconos. “I don‟t know Mark. This seems rather sudden,”— Mark held up his hands to stop her flow of words. “I promise you Samira that nothing will happen until you‟re ready. I just want to spend some time with you away from the city. We‟ll spend the weekend getting to know each other. The house in the Poconos is a summer home that Damien and I both use on occasion. I‟ve owned it for a little while now,” he explained. “I need clothes,” she said. “Not a problem, we‟ll stop by your place and you can pack an overnight case.” Mark held his breath waiting for her to reply. God he wanted her to say yes. Spending the weekend together would give them the perfect opportunity to talk, amongst other things. He would be telling a bald-faced lie if said he didn‟t want to make love to her, because he did want to. Many times, as many ways she would allow him to. He wanted to explore every inch of her delectable body. “What about your party tomorrow night?” she questioned. “I‟ll cancel it. That won‟t be a problem,” Mark said. Especially since the only person he‟d invited to his party was her. “Okay, Mark, I‟ll go with you.” His face lit up in a huge grin. “Great! Meet me by the elevators I need to get a few things from my office before we leave. Thanks, Samira, you won‟t regret it.” “I hope not, Mark. I sure hope not. I have to make a call but I can make it on my cell.” Marked placed a quick kiss on her lip, helped her off her desk and left to collect his things. After Mark left her office Samira gathered up her things, took out her blackberry, and placed her call. “Hello.” “Hey, you.”

“Samira, what‟s wrong?” Samira laughed. “Nothing‟s wrong. I just wanted to let you know that I‟ll be away for the weekend in case you‟re looking for me.” “Away. With whom?” The voice on the other end barked out. “None of your business,” she replied around her soft chuckle. “You‟re right. I‟m sorry. Just be safe.” “Don‟t be sorry, sorta nice having someone looking out for me. Thank you.” “You‟re welcome. I like looking out for you. Take care and call me when you get there?” “Okay, daddy,” she smarted. “Don‟t start on that one. Talk to you soon love.” “Okay bye.” Samira disconnected her call and went to meet Mark at the elevators. Mark was already there when she arrived. “Ready?” “As ready as I‟ll ever be.”

Chapter Two It took them a little over two hours to get to Mark‟s place in Pennsylvania after they left her place. By the time Mark pulled up in front of his house, Samira had fallen asleep. They‟d spent almost two hours at her place. They‟d eaten their sandwiches, and she‟d taken a shower and packed her case. It had taken all of his willpower not to join her in the shower. Looking over at the woman asleep in the seat next to him, he smiled. Mark ran a caressing finger over her brow. “Samira, honey we‟re here.” “Okay,” she said drowsily. Mark chuckled then got out and walked around to Samira‟s side of the SUV and opened her door. “Come on sleeping beauty,” he said lifting her out of the truck. It was a good thing is house key was on his the chain with his car keys; otherwise he would‟ve had to put Samira down to open the door. As it was he was he was going to have a hard time disabling the alarm. He opened the door and somehow was able to disable the alarm without having to put Samira down. Mark walked to his bedroom, pushed the three-way light switch to dim, walked over to his King sized bed, pulled the down comforter back, and placed Samira on it. He then removed her sneakers and socks. Samira had changed into a pair of what she called leggings and a tee when they‟d went to her house to pack her bag. Mark didn‟t want to undress her. He guessed she‟d be comfortable in those things. With a kiss to her brow, Mark backed away from the bed and out of the room. “Guess I‟ll be camping out in the guest bedroom tonight. Oh well. She‟s here and that‟s all that counts.” Mark whistled a happy tune back to the car to get their overnight bags, carried them into the house, and went back outside to get logs for the fireplace. Each of the four bedrooms and the living-room had an electrical fireplace. The family room had a wood burning fireplace since that was where he spent most of his time. Mark set Samira‟s bags on the floor in her room and went off to the guest bedroom closest to his bedroom to take a shower. Tomorrow would take care of itself. He was tired.

Mark had his shower and got into bed naked…alone. As tired as he was he couldn‟t fall asleep. Thoughts of Samira kept him awake for a while. He wanted Samira with a fierceness. Bringing her here wasn‟t his original plan, but it was the best one yet. No one other than Damien knew of this place. He would be able to spend quality time with her this weekend. Her being here with him felt right. Mark pondered over Josh‟s comment about him being in love with Samira. He couldn‟t confirm or deny his feeling for Samira. He loved being with her; loved her laugh, her work ethic, and her feistiness. Josh had been right about one thing for sure, his parents. His parents were the biggest snobs around. Josh had named them Mr. and Mrs. Stuck-up when they were in Junior High School. After Josh had overheard a conversation between his mother and mine about the company the boys were keeping. Meaning they had friends of many different ethnicities. The three boys‟ saving grace was in Josh‟s father. Harrison Stone had encouraged them to meet different people. Calling his wife and Mark‟s parents views ignorant. Everything Clarissa and Thomas Baldwin had ever done for him and Damien was for show. His brother didn‟t care one way or the other and did everything in his power to constantly piss off their parents. Mark would wait to see where his and Samira‟s relationship was going before he even thought about introducing her to his parents. The fact that she was African-American would probably piss his parents off, and the fact that Samira was adopted and not of the social elite, was surely be a bone of contention with his parents, but Mark could care less. Unfortunately his parents had gotten their ways honestly. His folks‟ parents had been just as snobbish as his parents. It was to his and Damien‟s utter amazement that they‟d left them very sizeable trust funds. With both trust funds, he and his brother had never had to ask their parents for anything since graduating from college. Mark was thirty-one years old and worked because he wanted to not because he had to. It was ironic really that his mother was so damned snobbish considering the fact that it was one of her so called friend‟s that he‟d lost his virginity to at the age of fifteen. As a matter of fact every kinky thing he knew about sex he‟d learned from many of his mother‟s friends. At one point in his life he‟d had sex

with so many women he‟d lost count. On various occasions he‟d had two at a time. Funny how he‟d had so many women yet was scared shitless that the one he wanted wouldn‟t take him seriously. “Whoever said Karma was a bitch wasn‟t lying,” he said as he drifted off to sleep. *** Samira stirred in the bed. Opening her eyes she was disoriented for a minute. It was dark and she was in a big bed that was not hers. The mattress was too firm to be hers. After her eyes adjusted to the darkness of the room, she surveyed its contents before quickly sitting up in bed. The room had a masculine look and feel to it. “Mark,” she whispered. Samira yawned, pushed the covers back, and swung her legs over the side of the bed. Now she remembered. She was in the Poconos with Mark. She‟d been so tired she‟d fallen asleep in the car. Mark must have put her to bed, his bed. Samira looked to the other side of the king-sized bed and noticed that Mark hadn‟t gotten into bed with her. The realization that Mark hadn‟t taken advantage of her tired state brought a smile to her face. Samira turned on the bedside lamp and scanned the room again. “Yep this is definitely the master bedroom. Well if he put me in here then where is he?” The clock on the bedside table read 4:00 o‟clock in the morning. “Damn, Samira, you couldn‟t sleep a few more hours,” she said to herself. “Probably because you‟re fully clothed.” She got up, went over to retrieve her bag, and got her night shirt out of it. Quickly stripping out of her clothes and underthings, she donned the nightshirt, than went into the bathroom to brush her teeth. Curious to know where Mark was she then went in search of him. The hardwood floor was cold under her bare feet. Samira found mark asleep in the room next to the one she was in. She guessed this was the guest bedroom. Although beautiful, there was nothing personal about the room. Samira stood in the doorway of the room and observed the figure lying in the bed on his back; an arm was thrown over his head. The covers were pulled down to his waist and revealed a chest to die for. Man oh man would she love to lie against that. Her eyes traveled from his chest down the length of his body. Wow, he was magnificent. Well the parts that she saw anyway. She couldn‟t see

what was underneath the covers but was sure she wouldn‟t be disappointed. Mark‟s features were distinctive. Standing at six one, about two hundred and forty to fifty pounds, brownish-blond hair with deep waves, neatly trimmed, complemented his clear blue eyes, skin that appeared slightly tanned all year round. Samira knew that Mark didn‟t use any tanning booths nor did he sit out in the sun to get tanned. His skin color was natural. Samira had seen Mark in shorts and t-shirts all the time and had never bothered with how he looked. Interesting how one incident causes a person to suddenly notice what‟s been there all along. Now just thinking about him caused her nether lips to tingle and pulse in awareness. She wanted him. Before Samira knew what was happening her feet began to move in the direction of the figure lying in bed. Stopping in front of the king sized bed, she walked to the other side and got in next to Mark. Mark must have felt the dip as she got in next to him because his eyes opened. “Samira, are you okay?” he murmured huskily. She grinned at him. “I‟m fine. I got lonely in that big old bed by myself,” she said and scooted next to him and placed her hand on his chest. She could feel his heartbeat accelerate under her touch. Felt each thump. “Please tell me I‟m not dreaming,” he whispered. Samira moved down Mark‟s chest, across his abdomen, only stopping to run her fingers through his pubic hair, before fisting his cock in her hand. His sharp intake of breath spurred her on. “Impressive. You like that?” she asked as she slid her hand up from the base of his shaft to the tip, gently squeezing. “Oh yeah,” Mark murmured... “I thought you would. How about this?” She asked huskily, as she continued to massage him from base to tip, stopping in between to fondle his nut sac. She loved the silky smooth feel of him. He wasn‟t huge like her former boyfriend, Darrell, but he was very impressive, and was getting more impressive with each stroke of her hand. Mark hips gyrated in tune with her caress. “Damn, Samira, your hands are so soft,” he said in a breathless whisper.

His finger drawing little circular patterns against her thigh was wreaking havoc with her senses. Her strokes became bolder on his erection. More firm. This wasn‟t enough. Without giving it a second thought, Samira sat up, pulled her nightshirt over her head and tossed it across the room. Scurrying down the bed she placed herself in between Mark‟s legs. Her face was aligned with his cock. Damn, he had a beautiful cock. A sight to behold, standing ramrod straight, nested in the straight blond hair that covered his groin. For however long this thing between them lasted this was all hers. She stared down at it a little longer, giddy at the prospect of having his magnificence in her mouth. “Samira, honey, you don‟t have to do that,” he said, his voice came out in short gasp. “I can wait until you‟re comfortable with me.” Samira peeped up at him from her position between his thighs. She noticed that his clear blue eyes had darkened and were now almost indigo. Samira eyes traveled back down to look at the cock that her lips were almost touching. It looked too good not to have a taste. Her tongue snaked out and licked the mushroom shaped head. “Trust me I want to,” she whispered against his shaft. His erection twitched as if giving her the okay to take him into her mouth. Samira opened her mouth over him, taking in as much of him into her mouth as she could. “Oh hell!” Mark cried out. His hips lurched up so high off the bed he almost flung her off him. She held on. His hoarse cry vibrated throughout the room. She was relentless. Licking and sucking him like he was her favorite piece of toffee. Samira lifted her mouth from him, took him in her hand, and gentle blew down on his erection, before taking him back into her mouth, deep throating him. “Shit! Just like that baby,” he said, taking hold of her hair and moving her mouth up and down his cock. He pumped into her mouth using her hair as leverage to direct the movements. “As much as I love your mouth Samira, we have to stop or I gonna come,” he said through clenched teeth and continued to thrust. Instead of heading his warning; she fondled his balls. The next thing Samira knew, she was yanked off of his cock, creating a suction sound with her

mouth in the process, and was now flat on her back with Mark on top of her; his dick lying in the crease of her vagina and his tongue down her throat. He kissed her deeply before lifting his mouth from hers. “I have many things I want to do with and to you Samira; coming in your mouth is the least of them right now, my sweet.” “So stop talking and get to doing,” she sassed. Mark pressed into her and rolled his hips against her. “I will. I just need to make something clear before we continue. After tonight we are exclusive. Is that alright with you?” he murmured, grinding against her again. Yes…it…is,

she

moaned,

half

out

of

her

mind

with

need.

“Please…I…need…you…inside.” “Not yet.” Mark reached between their bodies to palm her mound, before thrusting one thick finger inside of her. “You like my finger inside of you don‟t you?” he murmured against the side of her neck. Eyes closed, Samira could do nothing but nod her confirmation. Mark nipped the side of her neck with his teeth. Then proceeded to reign little love bites all across her neck, as he stroked deeper inside of her. Samira moaned deep in her throat and rode his finger. If he could get her this riled up with his finger, Samira couldn‟t wait to see what he‟d do with his magnificent cock. Her body trembled with anticipation. Her head trashed from side to side. Samira shuddered as one of his masculine hands cup her breast; she came all over his finger when he pinched her nipple while simultaneously adding another finger to the one already inside of her. “Oh my damn!” she cried out. He continued his pursuit. Leaving her throat and traveling downward, aligning his lips with her breast. “Mmm, perfect,” he said, bringing the erect tip into his mouth and suckled. Samira ran her fingers through his hair as he took turns to suckle both her breasts. Only releasing her breast to lift his head slightly and blow his moist breath on each before pulling it back into his mouth. This time he lapped greedily at her; leaving no room for doubt that he was just as aroused as she was. Man, he was good. So good in fact, she was about to come again just from him playing with her breast.

“I love your breast. They‟re perfect. Not too big and not too small. They fit perfectly in my hands,” he said, looking down at her caramel colored nipples, using his finger to circle her dark areola while simultaneously grinding his erection up and down her mound, allowing the tip of his to graze her womanly core before moving upward. “I can feast on them all day.” Samira‟s breathing was erratic; coming out in short gasps like she wasn‟t getting enough air into her lungs. “Would you like that, Samira, me feasting on your breast all day?” Samira felt like a mute. She didn‟t answer one way or the other. She did however, grabbed hold of his hips and rubbed her center against his erection. “Oh baby, not yet. Hmm, let‟s see what else you‟d like me to feast on all day,” he said and moved further down her body to the juncture of her thighs. “Open your legs a little more, Samira. I want full access to this pretty pussy of yours.” Samira opened her legs without thinking about it. She didn‟t think she could get any wetter than she was; his moist breath on her pussy caused her juices to flow freely. Mark used his fingers to part her nether lips. “Hmm, what do we have here,” he said, as he stuck his tongue out and swiped her folds with the tip of it. “Mmm, delicious, just like I imagined. Oh, I am definitely going to feast from your honey pot, Samira. More than once tonight, I can guarantee you that.” His erotic words sent mini shocks through her body. Hell if he continued to make her feel like this, go at it. Mark removed his fingers from her and used his lips to hold her open while his tongue did all sorts of wicked things to her clit. Using his lips and tongue he damned near licked and sucked her unconscious. He alternated between sucking on her clit and pushing his tongue deep inside of her. The sensations were so great, Samira began to writhe uncontrollably. He kept at her lifting her hips for better access. She cried out as she came hard and fast. He still didn‟t relent on his hold. He continued to slurp at her like she was his favorite soft drink. Samira screamed so much she was hoarse. She doubted she had anything left to give. “Mark…I…can‟t…too…much.”

With a final swipe of his tongue he lifted his head. “Yes, you can. Trust me,” he said, reaching over her to retrieve a condom out of his nightstand. Mark ripped the condom packet opened, put the condom on quickly, sat up on his knees, opened Samira‟s legs wide and placed them over his shoulders. “Brace yourself, sweetheart.” She‟d barely had time to grab hold of the side of the bed, before Mark placed the blunt tip of his cock at her center and pushed forward. Her pussy clamped down on his shaft. They both cried out in unison. “Oh my God, you‟re so thick,” she said hoarsely. “Am I hurting you?” “No. You‟re so deep. I can feel you, so deep,” she whispered. “You‟re supposed to feel me. Hold on, baby, this is going to be a little rough. If this position bothers you in any way let me know okay?” “Okay…just…get…on…with…it…already,” she gasped out. Mark chuckled. “Damn you‟re awesome,” he said, planted a quick kiss on her lips, grabbed the rounded globes of her ass and held on tight.. He pulled out and thrust back in, going deeper. With each thrust of his hips, her body jostled, and his balls slapped against her ass. The bedroom was filled with the sounds of their moans. Mark continued his thrusts into her. His thrusts were deeper; more profound now. “Fuck! Samira, your pussy has a death grip on my cock, love it,” He said, his head thrown back, his eyes rolled to the back of his head. “Hmmm,” she moaned. At this point she was beyond speech. She had lost most of her voice somewhere between her second or third orgasm. The way her body was tingling she knew she was about to come again. This one was sure to be explosive. Her head began to swim. The room was spinning so much she had to close her eyes to keep from falling into the abyss. Man he was deep and hitting her in all the right places. Her entire body sizzled with awareness. From the position that he had her in, Samira couldn‟t thrust against him as she wanted to; she used her vaginal muscles to clamp down on him, each time he pushed inside of her.

“Samira! Baby, I‟m about to come!” He moaned. Samira took advantage. Quickly removing her legs from his shoulders she sat up on his lap causing him to go deeper, placing her knees on either side of him, while simultaneously wrapping her arms around his shoulders, and buried her face in his neck. “Fuck, Yeah!” He shouted. “Ride it baby.” Samira bounced up and down on him twice before they both cried out their release in unison. “Ahh!” she yelled as best she could around her hoarse voice. “Whoa!” He screamed, shooting streams of cum into the condom. Pushing her hair back from her face, he began to rain kisses all over her face. “Oh baby, that was so hot. Damn, Sweetheart, where‟ve you been all my life? Thank you, Samira.” Samira couldn‟t speak. She was still trying to get her breathing under control. Samira gave Mark a tentative smile. You‟re…welcome,” she croaked out. Mark chuckled. “Poor baby, you lost your voice. Wow, I‟m that good, huh?” Samira punched his arm but remained silent. Mark kissed her on the lips and lifted her off of his lap, laying her on the bed, using the bed pillows as a back rest. “Lie back and relax baby. I need to dispose of this condom. I‟ll be right back,” he said, getting out of the bed and walking into the bathroom. He came back with wash towel in hand and sat on the bed next to her. “Slide down and open your legs, sweetheart. Let me clean you up a bit.” Samira moved far enough down the bed where her head instead of her back touched the pillows and opened her legs. She watched as Mark began to clean her vaginal area with care. Throwing the wash cloth across the room where it landed on a clothes hamper Mark got into bed beside Samira and pulled her into the shelter of his arms. Her head rested on his chest. “Samira, it‟s just after five a.m., you want me to make you some tea, or do you want to rest a bit?” he asked softly. “I‟ll rest a bit. I‟ll get tea later. Thanks,” she said hoarsely. “Okay, rest,” he said, and placed a kiss on her brow.

Mark held Samira, running his fingers through her hair and humming softly until she drifted off to sleep. Once asleep, he got up, took a shower, and walked barefoot into the kitchen to see what was in the fridge to cook for breakfast. Starting the coffeepot he then walked to the fridge to find that it was fully stocked. “Hmm, Damien must have been here,” he said aloud. Mark wondered why his brother hadn‟t called him. “Oh well, Damien knew where he was if he needed to reach him.” Mark moved quickly through the kitchen taking out the different things that he would need for breakfast. No doubt Samira would be hungry when she awakened. They‟d had quite the workout. Just thinking about what had transpired between them brought a smile to his lips. “I guess I should have picked another week to drop in?” Mark jumped and sprung around at the sound of the voice in behind him. His brother, Damien, was leaning on the kitchen counter with a huge grin on his face. “Dammit, Damien, you scared the living shit of me!” Mark yelled. “When did you get here?” Damien‟s grin broadened. “I‟ve been here all week.” Mark pulled a face. “You weren‟t here when we got in last night.” “Yes, I was. You know I always take the room at the far end of the hall. Anyway, I heard you come in last night but I was so tired I rolled over and fell back to sleep. Didn‟t hear any other voices, figured I see you in the morning.” “You‟re up early, even for you, Damien. Where‟s your car?” “Yes, well, I have you and your company to thank for that. You know, all the screaming and hollering that was going on,” Damien teased. “The truck is in the car port, you must have had something or should I say someone else on your mind when you got in last night. Mark reddened under his brother intense stare and teasing. He hadn‟t noticed Damien‟s truck once. “Oh Shit! Samira‟s gonna kill me once she finds you here,” he said running his hands across his face.

“Samira?” Damien asked with a lift of his brow, giving his brother a confused look. “Samira…you know…Samira.” “You mean, Samira, as in your friend and the woman who reports directly to you at work—that Samira!” Damien glowered at his brother. “Yes, that Samira. I don‟t know another.” “What are you playing at, Mark? Samira‟s not one of those bubble headed females you mess around with. Samira‟s a nice person. You yourself told me that she was a mess after her adoptive parents were killed two years ago in that automobile accident. Don‟t take advantage of her, Mark. She doesn‟t have any family left to fall back on if you break her heart.” “What the hell is going on? First, Josh now you, with the warnings. Josh even threatened to cut my balls off and feed them to the worms,” Mark said throwing up his hands. “Go figure! My best friend since childhood wants to make me childless over a woman he‟s known for a few years.” Damien doubled over in laughter. “Josh threatened you? Man, you‟d better listen, Josh is crazy as hell. Don‟t let the lawyer suit fool you.” “I know he is. Had me thinking he had a thing for Samira himself the way he was carrying on.” “You think he does?” Damien asked. “I don‟t know. He was being a little to protective for my taste.” “Well, if you‟re serious about, Samira, he won‟t act on his attraction, Josh might be crazy, but he doesn‟t poach.” “I know. I‟m not worried about Josh. Besides I have no intention of intentionally hurting Samira. I have deep feelings for her, Damien. I resigned my position at the bank to be with her,” Mark said, facing his brother, and making direct eye contact. Damien‟s eyes widened, his mouth stood agape. He recovered quickly, and then whistled through his teeth. “Will wonders never cease. You‟re in love with Samira.” Mark blew out a frustrated breath. “I don‟t know. It‟s too early to tell. I want to be sure before I bring her into our crazy world.”

“By crazy world, you mean, Clarissa and Tom? You let me worry about those two. If Samira‟s the one to make you finally grow up and settle down, I will be the first one to welcome her to the family.” “Thanks man,” Mark said walking over to his brother and embracing him in a tight hug. “No problem, now go back upstairs and let your lady know that I am here, so she won‟t be surprised when she comes downstairs. I‟ll get breakfast started and be out of your way no later than noon.” “Thanks, but you don‟t have to leave. I‟m sure Samira would love for you to stay.” “No thank you. If you two keep going at it like jack rabbits I don‟t want to be on the premises. Once was enough, thank you very much.” Damien shuddered. “You never did say why you were here, Damien.” “Just stopped in for a rest, Mark.” “Yes, but from what. Do you know I still have no clue of what it is you do for a living. Do you have a job, Damien?” Mark teased. “Go take care of you Lady, little brother. Breakfast will be ready in a bit. Come down when you‟re ready.” “Whatever, Damien.” Mark said, leaving him to go back upstairs to Samira.

Chapter Three Samira woke up to find Mark lying on the bed fully dressed and smiling down at her. “Hello, sleeping beauty,” he said. Samira blushed. “Hello. Was I asleep long?” she asked. “Yes. You missed breakfast. Your voice sounds better though. How does it feel?” “Much better than it was. It‟s just a little scratchy. Oh my goodness,” she said. “What time is it?” “Going on 11:15 a.m. Like I said you missed breakfast. Fortunately for you I‟m a nice guy, I put your plate in the microwave. Go get showered and meet me downstairs,” Mark got up off the bed and help her up. “By the way, I love your hair like that. You should wear it like that all the time. I like the look,” he smirked. “What, the messy look?” she asked. “No, like you‟ve been fucked all night,” he laughed. Samira blushed. Sucked her teeth, and headed to the bathroom to take her shower. “Must you be so crude?” “Yes. Besides you wear your blush so beautifully,” he laughed again. “I‟m just kidding with you, Samira. I love everything about you. Now I need to feed you. Come down when you‟re ready.” “Thank you. I‟m hungry. See you in a bit,” she said rushing into the bathroom. Samira showered, brushed her teeth, got dressed and rushed downstairs to meet Mark. She found him waiting for her in the kitchen. Mark watched as Samira made her way to the kitchen. She looked good in a pair of dark blue jeans and loose fitting blouse. Mark surveyed her from head to toe. “Do you look bad in anything?” he asked. “Have a seat. I‟ll heat your breakfast.” Samira sat down at the breakfast table and waited for Mark to warm her food. “Wow, you cooked a lot,” she said looking at the loads of eggs, bacon, sausage and pancakes, piled on her plate. He even placed a bowl of stewed

peaches next to her. “Stewed peaches are one of my favorites. Thank you, Mark. I can‟t eat all of this though.” “Eat what you can. I can‟t take the credit for the breakfast though, Damien made it.” Samira choked on the peach slice that she had just put into her mouth. “Damien?” “Yes, he came here, not knowing I was here. He‟s gone though.” “Mark, he wasn‟t here, this morning when we were —,” “Making love,” he finished for her. “No he wasn‟t.” Mark figured it was best not to tell her that Damien was here this morning. That would only embarrass her. He loved his brother very much and didn‟t want her feeling uncomfortable around him. Samira breathed a sigh of relief. “Good. I don‟t think I would have been able to face him had he been here this morning and heard us.” Bingo. That‟s what he thought. “No worries. My brother didn‟t hear your screams,” he teased. “Oh be quiet you. You were screaming just as loud as I was, as I recall.” “Hmm, I think you‟re right. We are pretty explosive together. Are you happy you came, Samira?” “Yes, I am.” “Good. Do you want to explore the property when you finish eating?” “Sure,” she said excited. Samira finished her breakfast, washed her dish, put on her sneakers, and she and Mark went for their walk. Mark‟s property was gorgeous. They walked the trails along his property, and back up to the house. Two and a half hours later they were inside sitting in the family room watching “When Harry Met Sally.” “I love this movie,” Samira said. “I can tell. You haven‟t stopped laughing since the show started.” “I take it you don‟t like chick flicks.” “I can take them or leave them.” “Wow. I hadn‟t seen that movie in while. So what do you want to watch next?

“How about Bad Boys II? Or we can watch something newer. I probably have any movie you want to see.” “Bad Boys II is good. You have a very impressive DVD collection,” Samira said admiring his shelves of DVDs. “I belong to several DVD clubs and have them delivered monthly. I come here when I need to get away from it all. Other than Damien and Josh, no one else knows about this place.” “Wow, you mean you‟ve never held one of your „parties‟ here? “Never. All of my parties are not wild…not anymore anyway.” “Not anymore?” she probed. “I stopped having those parties a while ago. That party that I invited you to, and that you brought Darrell to was already planned months in advance; not by me, but a friend of mine. I invited you too keep me company and out of trouble. I had no idea you‟d bring Darrell,” he said around a chuckle. Samira giggled along with Mark. “Yeah, Darrell, had a grand old time, so good in fact, he left the party with someone else,” Samira snickered. “His loss is my gain, Samira,” Mark said. “Why now, Mark? We‟ve known each other for years and in all that time you‟ve never shown an interest in me sexually. Why now, all of sudden?” she questioned. “Come here Samira,” Mark said patting his lap. Before Samira could move he had lifted her and placed her sideways on his lap with her feet resting on the sofa. Mark began to caress her thigh with one hand while using his finger to trace the side of Samira‟s face, then lifted and turned her head to face him. “It‟s not all of a sudden and it‟s not just sexually. I‟ve loved being around you, but it wasn‟t until your folks died and we began to spend more time with one another, that I realized I wanted to be with you on a more personal level. I was going to ask you out but you were transferred to my department and that was the end of that.” “Your rule,” she supplied.

“There was that, and the fact that you‟ve seen some things about me that haven‟t been exactly favorable. I just want you to know that before last night I hadn‟t been with anyone for about six months; not since I realized that I really wanted to be with you. I have a copy of my medical records in my briefcase. I had full blood work done and was given a clean bill of health. I‟ve never had sex without using protection. The records are for your peace of mind.” Samira drew a deep breath. “You haven‟t had sex in six months! Damn that must be a world record,” she teased. “Believe it or not, once I admitted that I wanted to be with you, I haven‟t wanted or have had the desire to be with anyone else except you.” “What about work, Mark? People are already talking.” “If by people you mean Adele, don‟t worry about her or anyone else. Besides two weeks from now I will no longer be your boss, remember?” „Oh, yeah, what‟s the deal with that, why‟d you resign your position?” “I told you I wanted to be with you.” “I have a confession. I was thinking about taking a leave of absence. I wasn‟t looking to become Sr. VP.”. Mark let out a bark of laughter. “You‟re kidding, right. Wait a minute…why do you need a leave of absence? Are you okay?” he asked, concerned that something was wrong. “Yes, I‟m fine. There are some personal things I‟m working on.” “You said that once before…do you mind if I ask what?” “I don‟t mind…but it‟s a long story that I‟d rather not get into right now. I will tell you everything soon though. I promise.” Mark peered at her through half closed eyelids. “If I can help in any way let me know.” “I will. Thanks,” she said laying her head against his chest. She loved the sound of his heartbeat. Mark adjusted Samira on his lap. She felt so right in his arms. He really wanted it to work with her and would do everything in his power to ensure that it did. Samira squirmed and adjusted herself on his lap. His cock switched at each movement. Mark kissed the top of her head.

“Comfortable?” he whispered. “Hmm, yes, nice and cozy,” she murmured against his neck. “I love you hair. Its silky smooth,” he said, and began to play with the glossy strands. “Hmm, I like your chest,” she giggled. “I especially like what‟s growing against my backside.” His chest rumbled with laughter. “I‟m sure it likes your backside. You little minx, you were doing all that wiggling on purpose,” he said softly, moving his lips down to hers and kissing her passionately. The kiss went on and on until Mark lifted his mouth from hers to trail kisses along the side of her jaw, her neck and her hair. Mark held his breath at the feel of Samira‟s hands slipping under his shirt to caress his chest, and then slowly released the breath that he was holding. Her small hands moved over his chest with slow precision. Boy did her touch feel wonderful. Mark closed his eyes for a few seconds; enjoying her touch. She removed her hands, pulled his shirt, up and over his head. Her lips replaced her hands on his chest. Mark turned and stretched out flat on the sectional with Samira on top of him. “More comfortable this way,” she breathed. He watched Samira look at his chest as if to figure out what she wanted to do next. Mark almost lost it when she stuck her tongue out and licked his nipple. She circled his nipple with her tongue, moving from one to the other, playing with them. She tugged gently on him with her teeth, licking and finally drawing the nipple into her mouth. Mark pulled Samira up his body and aligned her lips with his. “I want to give you pleasure, Samira. This is for you baby,” he said flipping her over so that she lay under him. Mark pulled Samira‟s shirt over her head, had her bra unhooked and tossed across the room with the expertise of a seasoned lover. “Damn, you‟re gorgeous, Samira. I love your breast. So perky, begging to be pleasured,” he whispered.

Mark closed his hands over her round soft globes; massaging them one by one, then bringing the pointed nipple to his mouth and sucked. Her cries of passion were like music to his ears. He moved from her breast, traveling downward, placing kisses on her abdomen and bellybutton, then traveled back up towards her breast again, stopping at her neck. Mark kissed and sucked on her neck. She was sure to have passion marks. He hadn‟t left a passion mark on a woman since he was a horny teenager in high school. What he felt for Samira was new and the need to leave his mark on her was great. “Let‟s get you out of the pesky jeans,” he said lifting up slightly, to get to the button and zipper, then taking them and the underwear off, throwing them across the room to join her shirt and bra. After Mark undressed Samira, he undressed, and lay on top of her. Mark brought his lips to her in a scorching kiss. He loved kissing her. Their tongues mated. The kiss became feverish. They couldn‟t get enough of each other. Neither could their bodies. Mark became aroused so quickly, that he began to rock into Samira. His cock was nestled in the juncture of her thighs. Each rock caused her juices to coat his erection. Damn this was going to be over before it got started. “I need you now Samira; however, I want you to ride me. You control the pace,” Mark murmured on a breathless whisper. Mark got up and pulled Samira up with him. He sat on the couch, legs spread, then suddenly remembered he needed a condom. Shit! The dang things were in the medicine cabinet in the bathroom down the hall. He knew because he‟d made sure to put some in every bathroom while Samira was asleep. “Samira, I need to get a condom. Hold on.” “You don‟t have to. I‟m on the pill,” she said softly. Mark‟s chest swelled with love for her. “You sure, Samira?” he asked. “It‟ll only take a minute to get one.” “I‟m sure. I trust you,” she said. “Thank you. I‟ll do my best not to abuse your trust, sweetheart. It‟s mean a lot to me,” he said lifting a hand towards her. Once she grasped his hand he pulled her onto his lap and kissed her again. “I can‟t take it slow this time Samira, I want you too much.”

“I don‟t want it slow,” she whispered against his lips. “I thought you wanted a ride.” Mark lips parted in a slow grin. “Oh yea, pretty lady, lift up and turn around with your back facing me,” he commanded. Samira looked at him skeptically. “Trust me. It‟ll be good for you. Turn around and spread your legs.” Samira did as he instructed. Damn this man had more moves and positions than a professional dancer. Mark held his cock straight. “Now ease down slowly. I‟m going to guide you down on me,” he murmured, using his free hand to guide Samira onto his cock. They both cried out at first contact. “Oh baby, just like that,” he said. He was only part-way in and her pussy was gripping his cock like a vice. “You‟re halfway down, Samira.” “Oh man, I feel so full,” she moaned. “Can you take more?” he asked, praying she would say yes. He had never gone bareback with a woman before and was glad Samira was the first and the last. Yep, she was the only woman for him, ever. “Yes, I can take more,” she said, opening her legs wider, and wiggling her hips to take more of him in, sinking further down on him. Mark pushed up into Samira as she was pushing down on him and almost blacked out from the sensation. Samira was fully seated on his lap and his cock was in her to the hilt. She felt like melted lava around his rod, fiery hot. His hips began to gyrate on their own accord. “I have to move, baby. It‟s so good.” Mark opened his legs wider and used his hands on Samira‟s waist to thrust her up and down on his cock. First, slow, then moved on to a faster pace. Samira had planted her feet firmly on the floor, a hand on each of his thighs, and took over the pace. Samira rode his cock. Each time she pushed down he pushed up into her, and they both cried out with pleasure. “Oh baby, it‟s so good,” Mark crooned, then reached out and fondled her breast. Pinching and pulling on them.

Their movements were at a feverish pitch now. Both were striving for completion. Their bodies were in sync with one another. Mark was relieved when he felt her vaginal walls clench him. She was ready…good because so was he. “Come on baby let go,” he urged. “I can‟t…so…good.” “Yes, you can,” he declared and reached around giving her mound two consecutive taps. Samira threw her head back, her body convulsed, and let out a scream so loud that if he had neighbors close by they probably would have thought someone was being killed. “YESSSS!!” Her screams sent Mark spiraling out of control and he came like a rocket, shouting his pleasure. “Oh Fuck Yeah! Woooo! Oh Shit!” Mark release seemed endless as he shot stream after stream of his seed into her. Samira collapsed back against his chest. Mark couldn‟t speak. He was too busy trying to pull air back into his lungs. Samira must have had the same problem because she was just making little noises, her heartbeat so strong you could see the heavy rise and fall of her chest. “Wow, that was indescribable,” Mark exclaimed. “Yeah…it…was.” “I came so much it‟s seeping out of you and onto my leg, but I don‟t want to move yet,” he said, wrapping his arms around her. “Let‟s sit here for a minute.” “Okay.”

Chapter Four Samira and Mark stayed that way for over twenty minutes before getting up to shower, then went to the kitchen and prepared an early dinner. Mark showed Samira what a sloshing party was. Using her love of peaches and cream he‟d covered her body with the syrupy concoction, then licked and ate every bit off of her. Samira not wanting to be outdone covered him with whipped cream, then licked and sucked it off of him. Mark had the best time of his life. When Sunday morning came around they were both blah not wanting to leave their cocoon. They‟d bonded over the weekend and he‟d fallen deeper in love with her. Yep he was definitely in love with Samira. They‟d been back at work for a week. Mark was preparing for his transition. He only had one week left in an official capacity at the bank then he was off to do his consulting work. The job required him to travel to and from the different branches but he estimated it wouldn‟t take too long to set things in order. He didn‟t want to be away from Samira for long periods of time. Just the thought of her brought a smile to his face. Samira was still wearing scarfs around her neck to hide the passion marks. Mark found out that Samira wasn‟t as innocent as he‟d once thought. They‟d made love in almost every position he‟d known and she‟d loved everyone. She never complained that he was too rough or too freaky in their love making. Samira was his equal in every way. A man couldn‟t ask for better. Mark went home with Samira every night, preferring to stay at her apartment. Samira felt that too many people knew about his New York apartment. She was right and he was putting it on the market. Mark owned several homes. He didn‟t need or want the New York apartment anymore. There was a knock on his door. “Come in,” he said without looking up from his desk. “Mark, we have to leave,” Samira said in a rush. “Samira, baby what‟s wrong?” he asked, rushing over to her side and pulling her into his embrace. She looked like she wanted to cry.

“It‟s…Josh…he‟s….been in an accident,” she cried. “What, when?” “About two hours ago. His dad just called me. They‟re getting the next flight out,” she said in a hurry. “Wait a minute, wasn‟t Josh on his way to the Hampton‟s today?” “Yes, I don‟t know all the details, but he‟s in Southampton Hospital. I think that‟s what his dad said.” “Okay, get your things and let‟s go. Calm down, sweetheart, I‟m sure he‟s alright,” he said stroking her back in a soothing motion and leading her out of his office and into hers where she packed up her things and gave instructions to her secretary. “Well isn‟t that just cozy. I knew you two had something going on,” Adele said. “Adele you have about ten seconds to get the hell out of my way or I won‟t be responsible for what happens,” Mark said. He wouldn‟t hurt the silly woman physically but damn she was annoying. For once Adele didn‟t say anything, just moved out of their way and let them pass. Mark got his car out of the car park. He‟d call Josh‟s father, Harrison, from the car. After he helped Samira into the car, he helped her buckle her seatbelt, then placed his call to Mr. Stone. “Hi, Mr. Stone, it‟s Mark, can you tell me which hospital Josh is in? Okay. Thank you. Sure. I‟ll call you as soon as I find out something. Bye. Mark hung up from Josh‟s father and called his brother Damien. Josh was like a brother to them, Damien would want to know. “Hello.” “Yeah, Damien, Josh‟s been in an accident. I don‟t know, he‟s in Southampton Hospital. Yes, Samira and I are on our way over there now. We shouldn‟t have too much of a problem with traffic, it‟s still early. Okay. Talk to you later. Mark looked over at Samira. She looked like she was in shock. She was wringing her fingers together and tears were falling. That‟s when he remembered. Shit! Her parents had died in a car accident. “Samira, baby Josh is going to be

fine. They would have told his father if he was critical and they didn‟t say that. Stay positive and focused baby. Do you hear me Samira?” She hiccupped and nodded her head in confirmation. “Good,” he said reaching for her hand and lacing his fingers with hers. It was a miracle they hadn‟t run into much traffic on the Expressway. They arrived at the hospital in record time. Mark parked in the emergency parking and entered the hospital through the ER entrance. Samira rushed in before him. “We‟re looking for Josh Stone, he was brought here a few hours ago. Car accident. The nurse or whoever she was at the registration desk was so busy looking at him she wasn‟t paying attention to what Samira was saying. Mark placed his arm around Samira‟s waist and pulled her back against him, placing a kiss on her hair. “Calm down, sweetheart,” he said, which garnered them a look of disgust from said nurse. “My wife asked you a question. We‟d like an answer please.” The nurse looked at her computer and typed in a few keys. “He‟s in CCU. That‟s on the second floor,” she said. “Thank you,” he responded as they walked off. “Oh my God, Mark, he‟s in critical care!” she stated in a panicked voice. “He‟s okay baby,” he said as they got on the elevator to take them to the second floor. After getting off the elevator they rushed over to the nurses‟ station to ask about Josh. They were met by the friendly face of one of the critical care nurses. “We‟re looking for Josh…Josh Stone,” Samira rushed on. “How is he?” “Are you family?” The nurse asked. “We‟re very close friends,” Mark answered. “I‟m sorry we can only speak with family members,” she said, her tone apologetic. “I‟m family,” Samira said, quickly. Mark watched as the nurse gave Samira a look of unbelief. He couldn‟t blame her, after all Samira was African American and Josh was Caucasian. Mark had given her the same look that the nurse was giving her now.

“Like I said, Miss, only family can see him.” “I‟m serious. I‟m his sister.” “Okaay. Is there anyone that can verify that?” the nurse asked. Samira took out her cell phone and placed a call. “Hello.” “Harrison, it Samira, they won‟t let me check on Josh, can you please tell the nurse who I am,” she said and handed the phone to the nurse. Mark looked at the nurse as she spoke with Mr. Stone and wondered what was going on. And why did Samira have Mr. Stone‟s personal number and was calling him Harrison. Hell, Mr. Stone was like a surrogate dad to him. Always there for him when his own father wasn‟t, and Mark still called him Mr. Stone, most of the time. He watched the nurse‟s eyes widened and hand the phone back to Samira. “Okay he‟s straight through those doors; bed eighteen,” she said, pointing to the double doors. “Thank you,” Samira said, and practically ran through the doors. They found Josh with a bandage on his head; one of his legs was in a cast, as was one of his arms. Damn he looked bad. The parts of his body that were exposed were all black and blue. They walked up to the bed and Josh didn‟t stir. A doctor came over just as Mark and Samira reached Josh‟s bedside. “He‟s not as bad as he looks,” the doctor said. “He‟s heavily medicated, that‟s why he‟s asleep. If he continues to improve during the night we will be removing him from CCU. His heart rate is going up and down and needs to be monitored. A cardiologist will be in shortly to have a look. His EKG looked pretty good though. We‟ll see.” “Thank you doctor,” Mark said. He could tell Samira was shaken up at the sight of Josh. She was trembling. Mark continued to hold her hand tight. “No problem, here‟s my card if you have any questions,” he said handing Mark the card and walking off. “See baby he‟s fine,” Mark said, but by the looks of Josh, he had his doubts. Mark felt a tightening in his chest. Man he could have lost his friend. “Oh my God, Mark, we could have lost him,” Samira whispered.

“We didn‟t. That‟s a blessing.” “Yes, it is,” Samira said, as she walked over to Josh and placed a kiss on his cheek. “We‟ll be here when you wake up Josh.” Let‟s go call Harrison, Mark, I‟m sure he‟s out of his mind with worry. By the time they left Josh‟s side and went back into the waiting area, Josh‟s parents had arrived along with Marks. “Shit! And here comes the drama,” Mark said, giving Samira‟s hand a gentle squeeze. On cue Thomas and Clarissa Baldwin rushed over to their son. “Oh, Mark, must you bring one of your playthings at a time like this?” his mother questioned, looking at their laced fingers in distaste. Samira snickered. “Oh Lord.” “Sorry to disappoint you Clarissa, Samira‟s not a plaything, she‟s you future daughter-in-law and don‟t ever call her a plaything again; I won‟t stand for it, not even from you,” was his acid reply. Mark‟s mother‟s jaws worked but no sound came out. She‟d turned beet red. She huffed and walked off to join her husband. “Samira.” “Harrison!” Samira cried, and ran into his outstretched arms. Harrison hugged her tight. “Harrison. I was so scared,” she muffled against his shirt. “So was I, hon. So was I,” he said in a voice strained with worry. “Stay here, I‟m going in to see him, and then maybe we can grab a cup of coffee together.” Samira peeked over at Josh‟s mom, Helen. “Samira, we will have a cup of coffee together,” Harrison said firmly. Samira heard the sharp gasps behind her. No doubt everyone was wondering what was going on. Samira turned slightly to see that Josh‟s mom still stood in the same spot, her mouth slightly agape, a look of total disgust on her face. Still she didn‟t say anything. Samira didn‟t care what they thought. The only person other than Josh and Harrison that she gave a damn about was Mark. She‟d explain everything to him later.

“Oh goodness, she‟s sleeping with both of them.” That came from Clarissa, Samira was sure. From the corner of her eye Samira noticed that people were starting to stare. “Okay, Harrison. Please, you and Josh‟s mom need to get in there and see him. I‟ll be here when you return.” “Thank you love,” Harrison said placing a kiss on her forehead. Samira watched as Harrison walked over to Helen, took her hand and they walked through the doors together. Samira was glad Harrison didn‟t walk in without his wife. They had created enough of a scene as it was. “Samira, you okay baby?” Mark asked, loud enough for his parents and anyone else in the vicinity to hear him; coming to her and wrapping her in his arms. Samira grinned up at him. “Yes, I‟m fine. I could use a kiss though,” she said mischievously. Mark‟s face broadened into a smile. “That can be arranged,” he said bringing his lips down to hers and kissing her soundly. “Must you do that here,” Clarissa said. Marked lifted his lips from Samira‟s and turned to his parents. “Try it, you might like it,” he retorted. Samira heard the giggles from behind them and chuckled as well. Mark‟s father colored and hung his head low. The man hadn‟t said a word since arriving. He did however, let his distaste for her show on his face. Eyeballing her up and down, rolled his eyes, and turned his head, as if to say, „whatever‟. Wow, these people are a trip. Mark has said his parents were snobs but good Lord. “Aww! a family reunion, how nice.” Mark and Samira turned simultaneously at the amused voice. Damien. Mark released Samira and went to grab his brother up in his embrace. “How did you get here so quick, Damien?” Mark asked. “Long story,” he said, as he walked over to Samira and gave her a bear hug. “How ya doing there little sister?” “I‟m good, Damien. You?”

“Can‟t complain. I see Clarissa and Tom are here, hope they haven‟t been making a nuisance of themselves,” Damien joked. Clarissa and Tom joined them. “Damien must you call us by our first names, we are your parents, you know,” Clarissa chastised. “I try very hard to forget the fact that you two are my parents every day,” Damien Snickered. Mark and Samira chuckled. Clarissa placed her hand on her bony hips with a haughty sniff of her nose. “Damien, will you please inform your brother that this is a time for family and n— not for whatever she is.” Damien and Mark were saved from responding by Harrison. “She has more right to be here then you do Clarissa. After all she is my daughter,” Harrison said. “You ready for that cup of coffee sweetheart.” If Samira thought the onlookers looked shocked before, the expressions on their faces now, were comical. “I sure am,” Samira responded. “Is it okay if Mark joins us?” “Of course it is.” Harrison replied. “Well, Hot Damn! I got here just in time for the show,” Damien all but shouted. “Damien will you please use your inside voice,” Clarissa scolded. “Why of course, Mother. I forgot my manners for a bit. I say old gal…I think I‟ll visit with me old school chum now…ta ta,” Damien mocked, turned and bowed at each of them and went off to visit Josh. They all chuckled at Damien antics. Samira noticed that even Clarissa lips twitched. “Damien wears his name well,” Samira said around her giggles, as they took their leave, in search of the coffee shop. “Damien likes given the parents a hard time,” Mark said. “I can tell,” Samira said. “So you‟re Samira‟s father? Mark asked. “Bet that made nice dinner conversation.”

Harrison laughed outright. “You could say that. I‟ll explain a little bit over coffee, while you explain your intentions towards my daughter,” Harrison added. The look Mark gave Harrison had them all laughing. Boy, Samira thought, it sure was good to laugh again. She was so happy she couldn‟t contain herself.

Epilogue By the time they finished their coffee, Harrison had given Mark the short version of how he‟d found out about Samira, leaving the more detailed information for her to tell. She‟d promised Mark she‟d explain everything in detail later. By the time they‟d gotten back upstairs, Josh was awake and was talking. The doctor had come in to explain that Josh‟s heart was fine. He‟d been having a reaction to the morphine. Samira stayed and talked with Josh for a few minutes. Josh gave her the keys to his place so that she and Mark could stay there instead of a hotel. Josh‟s parents stayed in their summer home in the Hamptons. Marks parents drove back to Connecticut as they were leaving for a cruise on Sunday morning. Later that night, Samira told Mark the entire story as best she knew. After her adoptive parents had died, Samira wanted to find her birth parents. Her adoptive parents as it turned out had been close friends with her mom, Myra Jenkins. She‟d found all kinds of pictures with names and dates on them. Her mom was originally from Monroe, North Carolina and had come to New York for job opportunities. She‟d taken what information she had to Josh. One thing led to another and they found out that she was Josh‟s half-sister. Harrison had supplied the rest of the information once Josh had taken the information to him. As it turned out Harrison had no idea of her existence. He‟d met her mom during a brief separation from his wife. She‟d worked for one of his father‟s holding companies in New York. He‟d fallen in love with Myra after spending a month with her. He‟d wanted to be with Myra and had asked Helen for a divorce for the second time. He‟d asked her before and she was giving him all kinds of problems. Helen had gone ballistic, causing all kinds of scenes and had used her money and status to make Myra‟s life miserable. Finally, Myra had enough. One day she was there and the next she was gone. Harrison started searching for her but by that time his father had been diagnosed with cancer and his time had been spent trying to keep the businesses afloat. His father had died six months after discovering he had liver cancer.

Harrison had promised his father on his death bed that he wouldn‟t leave Helen until Josh was old enough to be out on his own. He often thought of Myra, but had no idea that she was dead, or that she‟d given birth to his child. Apparently the only people who‟d known about her birth were the Morgan‟s, her adoptive parents. According to letters from Myra to her adoptive mother, Beverly, she was never to tell anyone that Harrison was Samira‟s father. Her mother had given full parental rights over to the Morgan‟s after discovering she had terminal ovarian cancer. Samira only had two years of her life with her birth mother. Now a year after Josh‟s accident Samira didn‟t think she could be any happier. They were living full-time in Connecticut. Samira had resigned and was looking into opening her own business. Mark‟s contract with the bank ended a week ago and he and Damien were working on starting a business together. Sitting in her lounge chair next to the pool, Samira sipped her Paradise peaches and cream drink: peach vodka, grenadine syrup, milk, and of course a peach. “Ah, pure heaven,” she purred. “Yes you are sweetness. Yes you are,” Mark said, lifting her off the lounge chair and onto his lap. Samira startled. “When did you get home,” she said on a breathless moan. Mark had lifted her bikini top over her breast and was suckling with fervor. “Hmm, that‟s good.” Mark lifted his mouth from her long enough to answer. “I got in about fifteen minutes ago. I went up to shower and change before I joined you,” he said. “So how was your day sexy?” “My day is great now that you‟re home. So what are we doing tonight?” She asked. “We are going out to dinner to celebrate just as soon as I finish making love to my woman.” “Sounds like a plan to me.” “Me too. This has to be a quickie since our reservation is in an hour,” he said pulling her bikini bottoms off, took his cock from his swimming trunks and

positioned her over his erection. Easing her slowly down onto his erection, Mark sighed. “Ah, home.” “Yes,” Samira murmured. The only noises for the next few minutes were the slapping of flesh against flesh, their heavy breathing, and finally the screams of release. ** * Mark carried Samira into the house and into the bathroom, where he made love to her again. Mark was dressed and waiting for Samira to put the finishing touches on her make-up. While waiting he took the black velvet box out of his jacket pocket with nervous fingers. “This is it old buddy. This will make me and my lady official. Samira will be mine forever.” Mark smiled and put the ring back in his pocket when he heard Samira approach. “Ready,” she cried from the staircase. Mark let out a wolf whistle. “Damn baby, maybe we should stay home.” “You like?” Samira asked coming down the stairs turning around slowly. Mark did a quick perusal of her from head to toe. “Baby that‟s too much skin showing for my peace of mind,” he said taking in how the dress molded her body, the never-ending slit, not to mention the deep dip of material in the back of the dress. “Hell you barely have any clothes on.” Samira laughed. “Don‟t be silly. Everything‟s covered.” “Barely,” he scowled. “Maybe we should stay in tonight.” “No. I‟m dressed and we‟re going to dinner. I thought we were celebrating something. Don‟t tell me, you and Damien closed another deal,” she said excited. “Yeah, something like that,” Mark said distracted by her dress. “Let‟s go Mark,” she said walking in front of him towards the door. “Okay, but I want you to know I‟m not happy about it.” “Noted,” she said and kept walking. At the restaurant, Mark was impossible, growling at every man who got within a few feet of her. Their poor waiter appeared nervous when he brought their food out. Mark had barked at him when he‟d taken their order. According to Mark the man was looking at her too long.

When they finished their meal, Samira finally asked. “So what are we celebrating?” “Samira, you know I love you with all my heart, right.” “Ye-yeah. What‟s wrong Mark,” Samira asked anxiously. Mark took the black velvet ring box out of his jacket pocket and opened it. He watched as Samira‟s eyes stretched wide and she started bouncing around in her seat. “Omigod, YES!” Mark burst out laughing. “Samira, you don‟t even know what I was going to say.” “Yes I do. And the answer is YES. Now can I have my ring please,” she said holding her hand out towards him. The people at the surrounding tables were laughing so hard it was hard for Mark to concentrate. “Well can I at least finish what I started,” he asked trying to control his laughter. “Okay go ahead,” “Samira Morgan will you do me the—,” “YESSS!!” Samira jumped up out of her seat and was sitting on Marks lap raining kisses all of his face. “Samira, honey, can you sit still long enough for me to put the ring on your finger?” Mark questioned. “Sorry, of course,” she smiled. “Love you baby,” and slipped the ring on her finger. “Love you too baby. Now let‟s go home so I can make you forget how old you‟re getting,” she teased. That got them loads of laughter from the other patrons. “You‟re on!” he said dropping enough bills on the table to cover their meal and a generous tip. People were clapping and congratulating them on their way out of the restaurant. They got a round of applause when Mark lifted her up and carried her out the door.

Samira called her father and Josh to tell them the news. Mark called Damien. Then they turned off the ringer on the phone and made love all through the night and then again the next morning. Life couldn‟t get any better. Hmm, maybe it could, Mark thought. After all he wasn‟t getting any younger. **SK**